“I Had the Patent Leather Jordan 11s”: Megan Rapinoe Recalls The Perfect Seven Years of Her Life Until Everything Drastically Changed

Megan Rapinoe, the USWNT captain, is one of the most inspirational figures in the sports world. Soccer and activism run through her veins. Her bold and straightforward personality is why fans are more fond of her. From a very young age, the athlete’s interest in the sport grew. Ever since then, she never turned back and worked hard to reach the heights of success. Nevertheless, Megan had to learn and unlearn a lot in her personal life. 

The athlete once wrote an article where she described some of her struggles from her childhood. Things that were normal for her, were not normal for other people. That made her feel unlike the crowd who followed the conventional societal norms.

Megan Rapinoe and her early life struggles

A discussion on soccer won’t end without mentioning Megan Rapinoe. It didn’t take her much time to establish her dominance in the sports world. Moreover, she is also known for her activism. Megan actively took part in the equal pay fight and also made sure to take a stand for the LGBTQ+ community. 

Nonetheless, before all, she had to support herself and come out of the closet. Initially, it was confusing for Megan. From the very beginning, she had a tough nature. Skirts weren’t her favorites, but a T-shirt and shorts could make her feel at home. Boys were never on her list of interests and dances.

“From like five to 12 years old, I was living my best life, man,” wrote the soccer star in her article. “I had the patent leather Jordan 11s. I had my Cowboys STARTER sweatshirt.”

When she was in sixth and seventh grade, she started realizing the difference between herself and everyone else. Gender identity started playing an important role. People started doing things and choosing things based on that. It became extremely burdensome for the athlete to cope with the sudden change. 

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The only question that ran through her mind 24X7 was, “What is happening?” She didn’t know how to behave and what to do. She felt weird, both about herself and the world.

Megan’s comfort zone

The athlete’s support system was her sister Rachel and sports. Both made her feel comfortable and safe, that was away from the confusing world and its norms. 

Megan pinned down the line: “Rachael saved me. Without her, I don’t even know how I would’ve handled The Wonder Years.”

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With Rachel and sports beside her, Megan didn’t fear anything. Finally, in 2012, the soccer star revealed her gender identity. Since then, she never backed off and made sure to encourage the LGBTQ+ community in every way possible.